THE case of a disciplinary teacher Azizan Manap, who was accused of slapping a pupil for sniffing glue, and later given a discharge not amounting to an acquittal, is one of the tell-tale signs that the problem of drug addiction among schoolchildren is escalating at an alarming rate. 

According to the recent statistics on drug abuse in Malaysia, it is estimated that the number of addicts will reach three million by 2020.

Equally disturbing, is the fact that younger and younger minors are involved. Children as young as below 13 are making headlines in drug abuse cases reported in the media from 2015 onwards. 

In August, we were shocked to learn the news of two youths who fell from an eight-storey building after sniffing glue on the roof of Kompleks Api Api, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. One died of serious head injuries.  

The Society for Education of Underprivileged Children in Sabah (PKPKM Sabah) reported children as young as three to four sniffing glue which is widely available in shops.

Inhalant abuse, such as glue sniffing, is not a criminal offence in Malaysia. Easy access and affordability where glue can be obtained for RM3 has contributed to the high number of youngsters engaging in glue sniffing. 

This is compounded by the facts that parents may not be aware of the health implications and long-term effects glue sniffing has, especially if children are exposed to it at such a very young age.

The long-term effects of glue sniffing include memory loss, addiction and brain degeneration. Children addicted to glue sniffing also display violent behaviour and prone to bullying.

Glue sniffing is part of inhalants and unfortunately, they are not included under the Dangerous Drugs Act. The lack of legislation has left the authorities unable make arrests. Likewise, there have also been few prevention campaigns against glue sniffing. 

A study by the Faculty of Education, Universiti Teknologi Mara revealed more than 30% students felt that their parents did not view glue sniffing, consuming alcohol or smoking as an offence. This is something which is very worrying. 

Studies have shown that glue sniffing, regarded as a child’s play, is a gateway drug before they move on to the “real” thing. 

I-Medik seriously urge the government to emulate Singapore and Thailand and ban glue sniffing. An Intoxicating Substance Act should be in place to prohibit the misuse of certain substances which may cause intoxication when inhaled. 

As for parents, close monitoring of our children is utmost importance. Do check out what is in their possessions and with whom they’re mingling. Give our full cooperation to schools and teachers, working hand in hand to curb drug abuse among children. – December 20, 2017. 

* Associate Professor Dr Rafidah Hanim Mokhtar is president of Ikatan Pengamal Perubatan Muslim Malaysia (I-Medik).

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.